The Babylon High School Class of 2025 gathered for their graduation commencement on June 27, a bittersweet milestone marking their final moments together as peers. The ceremony featured reflections from students and administrators, celebrating the graduates’ journey and the lessons they’ll carry forward.

Valedictorian Riley Altman, also class president, spoke about the power of choices: “Every decision we make shapes who we become.” She shared how a teacher’s challenge to push herself taught her that “success isn’t something that just shows up—it’s something you build.” Urging her classmates to embrace hard work, she added, “Find what makes you want to try harder, not because you have to, but because you want to.”

Salutatorian Jamisyn Cerny thanked her support system and reflected on the class’s shared bonds. After overcoming writer’s block while writing her speech, she realized their greatest achievement was “the community we built—family, friendship, and belonging.” Quoting Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, she reminded peers that material pursuits matter less than connection: “What we’ll truly cherish are the relationships we’ve created over 13 years. This community remains, no matter where life takes us.”

Principal Al Cirone praised the class’s resilience, noting students who balanced jobs, family care, and personal challenges. “That is growth. That is strength. That is Babylon,” he said. His 10 parting tips included gratitude, perseverance, and embracing individuality. His final advice: “Be you, boldly. Don’t fit in—stand out. Your story is unlike anyone else’s.”

For more information about the Babylon Union Free School District, please visit the District’s website at www.babylon.k12.ny.us. Exciting activities happening throughout the District and programs celebrating student achievement can also be found on the District’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/babylonschooldistrict/.